Gogglebox's Steve stuns fans with long 1970s hair

Fans of Channel 4’s Gogglebox were recently treated to a surprise when an unearthed photo of Steve, one half of the show's long-standing couple Sue and Steve, resurfaced online showing him with long, flowing hair from the 1970s. The snap — shared alongside a short refresher of the pair’s decades-long relationship and their time on television since 2019 — caught social feeds by surprise and sparked a fresh conversation about retro hair trends and how the past continues to influence modern style.

Why the photo matters

Throwback imagery of public figures often draws attention because it offers a humanising glimpse into different eras of style and identity. For Steve, the 1970s photograph is a reminder that hair can act as a personal archive: a visible record of fashion, self-expression and cultural climate. It also shows how men’s hair has shifted — from long, softer silhouettes to shorter, more structured looks and back again in current trends.

What 1970s long hair represented

The 1970s were notable for longer, natural hair textures across genders — a reaction to the previous decade’s structured looks and a sign of relaxed attitudes towards personal presentation. Key characteristics included centre parts, minimal product, and an emphasis on the natural fall of the hair. In the Steve photo, those hallmarks are plain to see: length, a soft shape, and an uncomplicated finish that reads unequivocally of its era.

How that look influences today

Long hair for men enjoys cyclical popularity. Over the last decade we’ve seen resurging interest in 1970s silhouettes: grow-out stages embraced rather than hidden, softer textures taking precedence over rigid styling, and an appetite for low-maintenance looks. Celebrities and social media have normalised longer lengths again, and images such as Steve’s act as reference points for people considering a vintage-inspired change.

• 1970s long hair favoured natural texture and movement rather than precision cuts.
• Styling was typically low-effort: a centre part, occasional gentle blow-dry, and minimal product.
• Contemporary reinterpretations often combine vintage length with modern finishing techniques for shine and health.

How to recreate a 1970s-inspired long look — responsibly

If the photo has inspired you to try a retro long style, you can take cues from the decade without compromising hair health. Below are practical steps that mirror the aesthetic while prioritising good haircare:

• Grow steadily: Avoid abrupt length changes; regular trims every 10–12 weeks prevent split ends while allowing length to build.
• Prioritise moisture: Use a gentle shampoo and a conditioning routine to keep long hair resilient and glossy.
• Minimal heat: Embrace air-drying or use low heat with heat protectant to preserve natural texture.
• Part with confidence: A neat centre part anchors the 1970s look, but experiment to find what suits your face shape.
• Choose lightweight products: A small amount of serum or cream can control frizz without flattening movement.

Key Takeaways

• Throwback photos like Steve’s remind us that hair is a visual timeline reflecting cultural shifts and personal identity.
• The 1970s long-hair aesthetic favoured natural texture, relaxed shapes and low-maintenance styling.
• Contemporary revivals of vintage looks pair old silhouettes with modern haircare and finishing techniques.
• To recreate a 1970s-inspired long look, prioritise gradual growth, moisture, minimal heat and light styling products.
• Public interest in celebrity throwbacks often sparks broader conversations about how past trends influence current hair fashion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who are Sue and Steve and why are they noteworthy on Gogglebox?
A: Sue and Steve are a married couple who became regular viewers on Channel 4’s Gogglebox, bringing warm and candid commentary to the show. Their long partnership and on-screen chemistry have made them fan favourites since joining the programme.

Q: Was long hair common for men in the 1970s?
A: Yes. The 1970s embraced longer styles for men, often favouring natural texture, centre parts and a softer silhouette compared with previous decades.

Q: Can modern haircare maintain a healthy long style like that?
A: Absolutely. With the right routine — regular trims, hydration-focused products, and limited heat — long hair can look healthy and contemporary while nodding to vintage shapes.

Q: Is a centre part necessary for a 1970s look?
A: A centre part is strongly associated with the 1970s aesthetic, but adaptations are valid. Slight off-centre parts or curtain bangs can modernise the look while retaining its spirit.

Q: How can someone transition from short to long hair without damage?
A: Transitioning successfully involves gradual growth with routine trims, nourishing conditioning treatments, protecting hair from excessive heat and chemical stress, and working with a trusted stylist for shaping.